Lake Biwa

Tourist attraction
★ 4.7 (200+ reviews) • 3K+ booked
Discover the enchanting beauty and cultural richness of Lake Biwa Omihachiman, Japan's largest lake. Immerse yourself in the historic 'Eight Views of Omi' ukiyo-e pictures that capture the essence of this majestic destination. Lake Biwa offers a plethora of activities and insights into Japanese history, making it a must-visit location for travelers seeking a fun and enlightening experience. Welcome to the charming former merchant town of Omihachiman, nestled on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. With its well-preserved historical buildings and picturesque waterways, Omihachiman offers a glimpse into Japan's rich past and cultural heritage. Experience the tranquility of this quaint town, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities like Osaka and Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the charm of Omihachiman, a hidden gem near Lake Biwa that transports you back to the Edo period. With its historical buildings, picturesque canals, and rich cultural heritage, Omihachiman offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Kansai.
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Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture, Japan

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Why people love Lake Biwa

4.7 /5
238 reviews
Read all reviews
Klook客路用户
4 days ago
This is a niche attraction, much better than the ones in various guides. The art museum has a strong I.M. Pei style, and the old bamboo forest is less crowded and has a good view, which is much better than the popular attractions on the Internet. The tour guide Sun is professional and introduced a lot of humanities, geography, and history on the way, including the changes of the capital, the introduction of Buddhism, the geographical location, customs, local specialties, and representative attractions of the Kansai region.
Klook客路用户
4 days ago
We joined this one-day tour in Kyoto on November 30th, which was very convenient. In particular, the tour guide TAKI was very considerate. He contacted us one day in advance to confirm and reserved the front row seats for us who were prone to motion sickness. During the activity, he explained in detail and was happy to serve tourists. The only drawback was that the itinerary was a bit rushed, and the experience of the last attraction was too hasty. Perhaps one attraction should be removed, so that the experience of the whole activity would be better.
Klook User
3 Dec
Sanzenin was the highlight of the trip. the entrance and time it takes to get there is well worth it. this day trip is a good way to spend a day if you've already explored the highlights of Kyoto, don't have a car, and want to go further out without worrying about car rental. Extra points if you go during fall foliage season.
2+
yeung ****
2 Dec
do recommended. nice tour guide. good value.
林 **
2 Dec
The tour guide Zhao Jing is very kind, professional and provides very good service. She is a recommended five-star tour guide. Meixiu Art Museum is a very worthwhile attraction and the focus of this itinerary.
2+
Klook用戶
1 Dec
The experience was not bad, but the whole journey was a bit boring. The total driving time was about five hours, and the tour experience was about 4 hours. Shirasu Shrine can be canceled because the shrine is not open.
zhang ***
1 Dec
A one-day tour in Shiga, including visiting the Miho Museum, the Kyubatake Forest, and the Shirahige Shrine, saves you the trouble of having to transfer to different means of transportation. The tour guide was waiting for everyone at the gathering place early, and introduced many historical and cultural anecdotes along the way, which was a very good experience.
liu *******
24 Nov
The tour guide Mr. Tianjin is great. His explanations are clear and warm and humorous, making this beautiful trip the best memory of this trip.
1+

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FAQs about Lake Biwa

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Boat Cruises on Lake Biwa

Embark on a scenic boat ride on Lake Biwa with two exceptional cruise options. Experience the charm of the American-inspired Michigan Paddle Steamer or explore Chikubu Island with its historic temples and serene landscapes. Both cruises offer unique perspectives of Lake Biwa's beauty.

Castles of Lake Biwa

Visit the iconic Hikone Castle and Nagahama Castle, each offering a glimpse into Japan's rich history. Explore the well-preserved Hikone Castle with its stunning Genkyūen Garden, or wander through Nagahama Castle for picturesque views of the lake. These castles are a testament to the region's cultural heritage.

Temples and Shrines of Lake Biwa

Discover the spiritual side of Lake Biwa with visits to Miidera, Omi-Jingu, Hogonji, and Chomeiji temples. Experience the tranquility of Mangetsuji Ukimido, a wooden temple by the lake, and explore the sacred grounds of Hiei Mountain World Heritage Site. These sites offer a glimpse into Japan's religious traditions and architectural marvels.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of Lake Biwa with popular local dishes like Omi beef and fresh seafood. Experience traditional dining experiences that showcase the region's culinary delights, offering a unique gastronomic adventure for food enthusiasts.

Culture and History

Immerse yourself in Omihachiman's rich cultural heritage, from its Edo period buildings to the vibrant festivals that showcase the town's traditions.

Canal Beauty

The picturesque canals of Omihachiman offer a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and boat rides, surrounded by historic buildings and lush greenery that come alive with the changing seasons.